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Shaykh ‘Abdur Rahman as-Sa’di, may Allah have mercy upon him, commenting on the proceeding surah:

قل “Say (O Muhammed ﷺ‎)”

A precise statement with conviction, acquainted with its meaning.

هو الله أحد “…He is Allah, (the) One.”

Meaning, the oneness is confined within (this statement of Tawheed).
Thus, Allah is Al-Ahad who is separate and unique (from creation) in his perfection which to Allah alone belongs the Most Beautiful Names, Lofty and complete Attributes and Actions that are Holy which have no parallel or equivalent.

Meaning, the design with all (of creation) is to have needs. So the all the inhabitants in the higher and lower regions (of existence) are in need of Allah to the point of (the existence) is poor, asking Allah for all their necessities, asking Him concerning their most important matters.
That is because Allah is complete regarding His qualities/attributes, Al-‘Aleem whose knowledge is flawless, Al-Haleem whose patience and mild-temperedness is perfect, Ar- Raheem whose grace is whole, expanding over everything; like this are the rest of His qualities.
And from His perfection is that Allah…

As we have clarified in chapter two, the principles. That a Muslim is not pronounced a disbeliever in Allah except if he denies or, rejects something from the religion known by necessity, or makes halaal what Allah made haram, and haram what Allah made halaal. Or that he belittles the Sharī ‘ah, or believes he has a choice in the matter of judging by other than what Allah has revealed.

Also that kufr (disbelief) is of two types: Kufr Akbar: which is major disbelief, or kufr in belief, that takes one out of the fold of Islam. And kufr Asgar: which is minor kufr, or kufr in action, that does not take one out of the fold of Islam.

And that a Muslim is not pronounced a disbeliever by his sayings, actions or belief until the proof is established against him.

And that all the explanations of the verse in Maáidah 44 are understood within the boundaries of all the principles mentioned in chapter two and do not exceed the five sayings discussed in chapter three.

So for the noble reader now, we will bring sayings from the salaaf and scholars after them, that affirm the above information regarding the issue of not judging by what Allah has revealed.

1: Ali Ibn Abi Talha narrates from Ibn Abaas in the tafseer of his (Allah) saying “..And whoever does not judge by what Allah reveals then such are the disbelievers “ .That which is the root in this issue he said is “ Whoever denies what Allah reveals then he has disbelieved and whoever accepts it and does not judge by it then he is a dhalim (oppressor), faasiq (sinner).[1]

2-6: Al-Qurtabi said: That Ibn Masood and Al-Hassan said “it is general for all that do not judge by what Allah has revealed, meaning believing in that and making it halaal.” [2]

7: And Mujaahid said regarding these three verses: “Whoever leaves judging by other than what Allah revealed rejecting the book of Allah then he is a kaafir, (disbeliever) dhaalim (oppressor), faasiq (sinner). [4]

8: And Ikraama said: “And whoever does not judge by what Allah reveals by denial of it has indeed disbelieved, and whoever accepts it and does not judge by it then he is a dhaalim, faasiq.” [5]

And Al-Khaazinu said in connection: “this is the saying of Ibn Abbaas also.”

9: And what was mentioned above is also the opinion of Az-Zajjaaj. [6]

10: The Sheikhul Mufasireen At-Tabari said: “The foremost of these sayings with me is the saying of those who said: These verses were revealed upon the kuffar from the people of the book. That is because of the information in the verses which come before it and after it, so upon them it was revealed. They are who were meant, by these verses and these verses bring information about them. So the fact that it brings information about them is to be taken foremost……..”[7]

11: And Al-Fakhro Ar-Raazi said: “Ikrama said: “his saying …Whoever does not judge by what Allah reveals ……….. This is regarding the one who rejects with his heart and denies with his tongue. “As for one who knows with his heart, it is the law of Allah and he accepts upon his tongue that it is the law of Allah, but he comes with something which is in opposite to that then such a person is a judge by what Allah has revealed but he is one who has left it. (Taarik lahu) so he does not belong under these verses. And this is the correct saying, and Allah knows best.” [8]

12: Az-Zamakshari said: “And whoever does not judge by what Allah reveals…..”despising it …..”Such are the disbelievers, and oppressors, and sinners, a description for them because of their transgression in their disbelief.”[9]

13: And Al-Qurtubi said: meaning, believing in that, making that haalal. As for the one who does that whilst he believes that he is boarding something haraam then he is from the Muslims that sin. His affair is with Allah if He wishes He will punish him, or if He wishes He will forgive him.” [10]

14: And Aboo So`ood said: “meaning, whoever does not judge with that

despisingrejecting…….”then such are the disbelievers “ because of their

15: And Al-Nasafee said “and whoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed, scornfully…, then such are the disbelievers.” [12]

16: Sheikh Aboo Mansoor said: “it is permitted to mean denial in all the three verses so he would be a disbeliever, oppressor, and a sinner . This is because a complete sinner and a complete oppressor are disbelievers.”[13]

17-25: Aboo Bakr Al-Jassas said: “ and his (Allah) saying ….And whoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed then such are the disbelievers. “- It is not free from that its meaning is either: kufru-shirk (a disbelief that reaches the level of shirk) and kufr ul johood (denial), or kufr-neama (a disbelief of Allah`s blessings) without denial. So if its meaning is denial of Allah`s laws, or judging by other than it claiming that it is the law of Allah then this is kufr that takes one out the fold of Islam and its doer is an apostate if before that he was a Muslim. Upon this is the explanation, of the one who said: That it was revealed upon the children of Israel and applied upon us, meaning – the one who denied the law of Allah or judged by other than the law of Allah then said “this is the law of Allah “such a person is a disbeliever, just as he children of Israel disbelieved when they done just that. [14] Whilst if the meaning of it was kufru-neama (a disbelief of Allah s blessings) then the disbelief of Allahs blessings, may be because of not showing thanks to Allah for it without a denial, then its doer is not out of the fold of Islam. That which is apparent is the first meaning (disbelief of shirk and deniel) because of his usage of the word kufr upon the one who does not judge by what Allah reveals.” [15]

26: Al-Baydaawi said: “…and whoever does not judge by what Allah reveals….` despising, in rejection of it `…..then such are the disbelievers” because of their despise for it and arrogance to judge by other than it. So that is why he described them by his saying “disbelievers” and “Oppressors” and “sinners.” Their disbelief was because of their rejection of it, and their oppression because of their judging in opposition to it, and their sin because of their transgression from it.” [16]

27: The explainer ofAt-Tahaawi said: “here is an issue which is an obligation to be understood and that is judging by other than what Allah has revealed at times may be disbelief (kufr) that takes one out of the fold of Islam or at times it could be major sin or minor sin and it could be relative disbelief (kufrulmajaazee) or minor disbelief (kufr al-asghar) and that depends on the condition of the leader:

-If he believes that judging by Allahs law is notobligatory or that he can choose or not to choose it or he despises it with awareness that it is the law of Allah then this is major disbelief.

-but if he believes that it is anobligation to judge by what Allah has revealed and he understood it in this situation, then did not judge by it with knowledge that he is deserving of punishment ,then he is a sinner. This is called relative disbelief or minor disbelief.[17]

28: Ibn Al- Jowzi said: “And the final conclusion:

That whoever does not judge by Allah law denying it whilst he knows that Allah revealed it just as the Jews done then such a person is a disbeliever (kaafir).

And whoever does not judge by Allahs law leaning toward desire without denial then he is an oppressor (dhaalim), sinner (faasiq). Ali Ibn Abi Talha narrates from Ibn Abass that he said “whoever denies what Allah has revealed then he has disbelieved and the one who accepts it but does not judge by it then he is an oppressor (dhaalim) sinner (faasiq).” [18]

29: Shiekh ul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah said: “There is no doubt that whoever does notbelieve in the obligation of judging by what Allah has revealed upon his messenger then he is a disbeliever. So whoever deems it permissible to judge between the people by what he sees to be justful without following what Allah has revealed then he is a Disbeliever. For there is no Ummah except that they have to order to judge with justice whilst the justice in its religion may be what their respected people see to be correct. Furthermore many of those who originate themselves to Islam judge by their customs which Allah did not reveal, like the orders of those tribal leaders in the deserts and those obeyed amongst them and they see that, this is what is desirable to judge by, without the book and the sunnah and this is kufr (disbelief).

For indeed many of the people embrace Islam but along with this they do not judge except by their known customs and orders given to them by their leaders so these people if they knew that it was not permissible to judge except by what Allah reveals and they did not adhere to that, rather they madepermissibleto judge in opposition to what Allah reveals so they are the disbelievers, if not then they are ignorant.” [19]

And he also said:

“Mankind, when he makes halaalwhat there is consensus upon that is haraam,

Or makes haraam what there is consensus upon that is halaal, or changesthe legislation which there is consensus upon. He is a disbeliever apostate by consensus of the jurists and upon this similitude was revealed his (Allah) saying upon one of the two sayings: “And whoever does not judge by what Allah reveals then such are the disbelievers “meaning he makes halaal the judging by other than what Allah reveals.” [20]

30: The learned Imam Ibnul Qayyim al Jowzi (rahimahullaah) said: “That which is correct is -judging by other than what Allah reveals includes two types of kufr (disbelief): Minor and Major dependent upon the condition of the judge (leader).

So if he believes in the obligation of judging by what Allah revealed in this incident then abandoned it out of disobedience with awareness that he deserves to be punished then this is kufr al asghar (minor disbelief). But if he believes that it is notobligatory or he has a choiceinthe matter with his understanding that it is indeed the law of Allah then this is kufr al akbar (major disbelief). If he is ignorant of it or made a mistake in it, then he is one who made a mistake he has the ruling of those who make mistakes.” [21]

31: And Al-Haafidh Ibn Katheer (rahimahullaah)said: “…And those that do not judge by what Allah has revealed then such are the disbelievers “because they denied the law of Allah intentionally, in opposition and deliberately. He said right here “…then such are the oppressors “because they did not treat without discrimination the oppressed from the oppressor in the matter where Allah ordered with justice and equality between all. So they differed and oppressed and transgressed. “ [22]

32: The learned one of Shaam Ash-Sheikh Jammal ul Kaasimi (rahimahullaah) said: “disbelief of a leader that does not judge by what Allah has revealed with restricting despise and denialto it, this is the direction which many had taken and were more impressed by, from Ikrimah and Ibn Abbaas.” [23]

33: And As- Saahib ul Manaar [24] (rahimahullaah) said: “and many of the Muslims have introduced legislations, and rulings like those before them had introduced, and they abandoned- with judging by it – some of what Allah had revealed upon them. As for those who abandon what Allah had revealed in his book from the rulings without false interpretation and they believe in its authenticity. Then it is truly upon them, what Allah said in the three verses or in some of them. They are all accounted for, based upon their condition:

– So whoever turns away from the ruling of punishment for theft or false accusation of fornication, or fornication, not submitting to it because of his dislike of it, and preference of other than it from the legislation of man then he is a clearkaafir (disbeliever).

– And whoever does not judge by it due to otherfaults then he is a dhaalim (oppressor) if in that was the neglecting of rights, or abandonment of justice and equality in it, if not then he is a faasiq (sinner) only.

Indeed we see many of the religious Muslims believing, that the civil magistrate courts which judge with the kuffaar laws, as being disbelievers (kuffar) taking the apparent meaning of the verse “And whoever does not judge by what Allah reveals then such are the disbelievers.” and they necessitate by their ronouncing of takfeer on the judge – the one who rules by the laws of the kuffar– the takfeer of the leaders, and those in authority who implement the laws of the kuffar.

For, if it was not written with their knowledge, then surely it was placed with their permission, and they are the ones who appoint the judges to rule by it. As for the apparent meaning of the verse then no one from the well known scholars of fiqh has ever said it to mean that, rather no one had ever said that at all. !!! [25]

34: And the Sheikh Aboo Hibbatu Allah Ismaael bin Ibraheem Al-Isaredee may Allah have mercy upon him said:

“And whoever does notbelieve in the obligation of judging by what Allah has revealed upon his messenger, and made permissible to judge between the people by that which he sees to be justice, without adhering to what Allah has revealed then he is a disbeliever.……so these people if they knew that it was not permissible to judge except by that which Allah had revealed and then did not adhere to that, rather they made it permissible to rule in opposition to what Allah has revealed then they are disbelievers, otherwise they are ignorant, astray, and they do not know.” [26]

35: His excellence the Sheikh Ash-Shanqitee – may Allah have mercy upon him said:

“So know that the liberating stance in this study is that kufar, dhulm, and fisq (disbelief, oppression, and sin) each one of them is expressed in the shariah to sometimes give a meaning of sin, and sometimes give a meaning of kufr that takes one outside the fold of Islam.

– So whoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed in opposition to the messenger and invalidating the rules of Allah then his oppression, sin, and disbelief all of them takes him out of the fold of Islam.

– And whoever does not judge by what Allah has revealed believing that he has boarded that which is harram (impermissible) and is ugly. His disbelief, oppression, and sin are not of that which takes him out of the fold of Islam.”[27]

36: His excellence the Sheikh As-Sa’dee may Allah have mercy upon him said:

“Judging by other than what Allah has revealed is from the actions of the people of disbelief. It maybe the disbelief that takes one out the fold of Islam, and that is if he believes in its permissibility and its allowance. And sometimes it maybe a major sin , and from the actions of disbelief that the doer may deserves a fierce punishment`…….And whoever does not judge by what Allah reveals then such are the disbelievers… ` Ibn Abbaas said: kufr doona kufr (a disbelief less than the disbelief that takes one out of the fold of Islam), and dhulm doona dhulm (an oppression less than that which takes one out of the fold of Islam), and fisq doona fisq (sin less than that which takes one out of the fold of Islam). So it is a major oppression when it is made permissible, and a great major sin when it is donewithout it being made permissible.” [28]

37 : The Mujadid of the religion, the Imaam of the Ahla- Sunna wa al jamat Abdul Aziz bin Abdallah bin Baaz may Allah increase his days with us and benefit us by his knowledge, and give him the best of rewards in all his efforts for Islam and the Muslims. He said:

“whoever judges by other than what Allah has revealed then he does not go out of four positions:

1) One who says that I judge by this because it is better than the Islamic Sharī ‘ahthen he is a disbeliever kufar al Akbar .

2) One who says that I judge by this because it is like the Islamic Shari’ahand judging by this is permissible just as judging by the Shariah is permissible. He is a disbeliever kufar al Akbar.

3) One who says that I judge by this and the ruling of the Islamic Shari’ah is better, but the judging by other than what Allah has revealed is allowed. He is a disbeliever kufr al Akbar.

4) One who says that I judge by this whilst he believes that judgment by other than what Allah has revealed is not allowed and he says: that the judgment of the Islamic Shariah is better, and it is notpermissible to judge by other than it, but he is easy in the matter, or he does this because of an order issued from his government. He is a disbeliever with kufr al asghar minor disbelief that does not take him out of the fold of Islam and it is considered to be from the greatest of major sins.” [29]

38: This saying has also come from the Muhadith of our time, the faqeh, the Imaam, the mujadid of Islam, the learned Sheikh Naasirud-deen Al-Albaanee, may Allah protect him, make him a source of benefit, and may Allah reward him with the best reward for his efforts with Islam and the Muslims.[30]

The opinion of the Sheikh was clearly published in the newspapers: `As-Sharq ul Awsaat` and Al Muslimoon. The Noble sheikh Ibn Baaz commented on the opinion of Sheikh Al-Albanee and affirmed it in the above mentioned newspapers by his saying:

I have seen the beneficial reply which his eminence the Sheikh Naasirud-Deen Al Albanee had produced which was publicized in the newspapers: `As Sharq ul Awsaat` and Al Muslimoon. Which his eminence replied as an answer for the Questioner regarding Takfeer of the one `who does not judge by what Allah has revealed without explanation. I call it a valuable speech for indeed he spoke the truth, followed and clarified the path of the believers may Allah grant him ability. He made clear that it is not permissible for anyone to judge someone who judges by other than Allah law based just upon his action without finding out did he make it halal by his heart, and he brought of evidence for that, what was narrated by Ibn Abaas (radiyallaahu anhu) and other than him from the salaf of this Ummah…`

39: Then the speech of the two scholars [32] was read to the Imaam, the Sheikh Ibn Uthaimeen who approved of it and strengthened it.

So all these are the sayings of the scholars of old and present. We findno difference between the early scholars and our contemporary scholars, in this dangerous issue of Takfeer. Nothing remains after the truth except falsehood

[1] Narrated by Ibn Jareer in his tafseeer 19/357 No.12063 & in Ibn al Mundir &Ibn Abi Hatim. Also see Dur al Manthoor 3/87, and the Saheefa of Ali Ibn Abi Talha from Ibn Abaas 179. Imaam Ahmad said regarding this Saheefa ` in Egypt there is a Saheefa of Tafseer narrated by Ali Ibn Abi Talha, if a man travels to Egypt with an intention to see it, that would be sufficient for him.` Buccari use to rely on this Saheefa extensively for his collection of Authentic Ahadeeth in that which he narrated from Ibn Abaas. The truth is, that it is of the most authentic chains in the tafseer of Ibn Abaas, although Ibn Abi Talha did not hear them directly from Ibn Abaas. They were known by the middle narrators whom Ibn Abi Talha took them from. For indeed he did take them from Mujaahid and Ikrama so there is no defect in that. And Allah knows best.

[14] (on this point it is imperative that we add the names of those who are of this saying which we found to be many, from them are Al – Barra,Hudaayfa, Dhahaak, Qataada, AbooSaalih, AbooMajliz, AbaidullahbinAbdullah bin UtbaabinMasood, AbooYa`la Al-Faraai, so all these said that these verses are specific for the people of the book. These eight names will now be added to the list making so far a total of twenty five sayings of the scholars).

Consensus of ahlus-sunnah wal jamaa’ah upon the tafseer of the verse; “..And whoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed such are the disbelievers (kaafiroon).” [Al-Maa`idah (5):44]

So that in which there is no difference between the former and the latter scholars regarding one who does not judge by what Allaah has revealed out of denial or making it permissible is that such an individual is a kaafir (disbeliever), out of the fold of Islam.

“And whoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed, such are the disbelievers.”

[Al-Maa`idah (5):44]

Then the scholars of tafaseer did not differ in the detailed explanation of it, except in their usage of words, so the one who has little knowledge will think that they are differing in meaning but that is not the case some of them explain by means of synonymous terms while others are straight forward in their explanation but they all mean and believe the same, which is the belief of Ahla Sunnah wal Jamaat.

So if we gather all the statements of the Mufassireen from Ahla sunnah then, their tafaseer of this verse do not exceed five sayings. They are:

First Saying:

He who denies what Allaah has revealed has disbelieved and he who accepts it but does not judge by it then he is a dhaalim,faasiq.

This is narrated by Alee Ibn Abee Talhah, from Ibn Abbaas (radiyallaahu anhu) and similar to this is narrated by Ikrimah.[1]

Second Saying:

That the intended meaning of this verse is kufr doona kufr (disbelief less than disbelief) which does not takes one out of the fold of Islam.

From those who said this are Ibnu Abbass (radiyallaahu anhu), Taawoos and his son (rahimahumallaah), and Ataa Bin Abee Rabaaha (rahimahullaah), and Ali Bin Al-Hussain Zainul-Aabideen (rahimahullaah). [2]

And these first two sayings, there are no problems with at all. Both of them in reality give one meaning at the end, and that is our saying: after establishment and explanation.

Third Saying:

That Allaah meant by this verse the Jews who changed the book of Allaah and its rules.

There are over nine evidences for this. From those who said this are: Al-Baraa, Hudhayfah, Ikrimah, Dahhaak, Qataadah, Abu Saalih, Abu Mijliz, Ubaydullaah Bin Abdullaah Bin Utbaa Bin Mas’ood and most of the Mufassireen as stated by Al-Qurtubi.[3]

Also to aid this statement is the reason for the revelation of this verse, as it occurs in Saheeh Muslim. From the hadeeth of Al-Baraa Bin Aazib (radiyallaahu anhu) who said:

“Two Jews who were tied and their faces blackened with ashes passed by the Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam). So he called them and said: ‘Is this how you find the punishment for zina in your book?’ They replied: ‘Yes’. So he called a man from amongst their scholars and said: ‘Do you swear by Allaah, the One who revealed the Tawrah to Moosaa, that this is how you find the punishment for adultery in your book?’ He said: ‘No, and if you hadn’t asked me to swear to it then I would not have informed you. The real punishment is stoning, but it is prevalent amongst our noble ones so if we found our noble ones fornicating we left him and if we found the peasant fornicating we established the punishment on him. So we said: ‘Come here.’ So we went to gather the noble people and the average people, and we brought the people who were tied and their faces were blackened to the place of stoning.’ Allaah’s messenger (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said: ‘Oh Allaah, I am the first to revive your law after it has passed away.’ So he ordered that they be stoned. Then Allaah revealed:

“O Messenger (Muhammad (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam))! Let not those who hurry to fall into disbelief grieve you, of such who say: ‘We believe’ with their mouths but their hearts have no faith. And of the Jews are men who listen much and eagerly to lies – listen to others who have not come to you. They change the words from their places; they say, ‘If you are given this, take it, but if you are not given this, then beware!’…”

“..And whosoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed such are the disobedient (faasiqoon).”

[Al-Maa`idah (5):47]”

All three verses for them, the kuffar. [Saheeh Muslim]

As further evidence, Abu Ya’laa Al-Faraa said:

“And He (subhaanahu wa ta’aala) also made that clear when He mentioned the Jews and said:

فَإِن جَآؤُوكَ فَاحْكُم بَيْنَهُم أَوْ

“If they come to you then judge between them or..” [Al-Maa’idah (5):42]

But He did not stop there, rather He (subhaanahu wa ta’aala) said:

وَكَتَبْنَا عَلَيْهِمْ فِيهَا أَنَّ النَّفْسَ بِالنَّفْسِ

“And we ordained for them a life for a life….” [Al-Maa’idah (5):45]

So when the entire story, from the beginning to the end is about the Jews, then the ayaat are about them.”[4]

Remember here also the principle that evidence is taken from the generalisation of the words not from the specific reason for revelation.[5]

The kufr in these verses refer to everyone that does what the Jews done in their denial of some of the rulings of the shari’ah that are well established, and that is what was intended by those who made it specific to the Jews, who changed the book of Allaah.

This was also confirmed by Al-Jassas when he said:

“The reference is to rejecting Allaah’s judgement, or judging with other than that, while being informed of what Allaah’s judgement is. This is the kufr that removes one from the religion, its doer is an apostate, even if he was a Muslim before that. In this way it has been explained by those who said: ‘It was revealed for the children of Israel and it applies to us.’ They mean that whoever rejects Allaah’s judgements, or judges by other than Allaah’s judgements, then he claims: ‘This is Allaah’s judgement, then this person is a disbeliever, just as the children of Israel disbelieved when they did that.” [6]

And Al-Khaazin said:

“..And whoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed such are the disbelievers (kaafiroon).”[Al-Maa`idah (5):44]

“Meaning that when the Jews rejected the judgement of Allaah (subhaanahu wa ta’aala) which they had texts for in the Tawrah they said: “That it was not an obligation, so they were complete disbelievers in Moosaa (alayhis-salaam) the Tawrah, and Muhammad (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) and the Qur’aan.” [7]

“And the most correct of these sayings, according to me, is that which says that these ayaat were revealed about the disbelievers from the people of the Book. Since the ayaat before and after them were revealed about them, then their meanings are understood by them, and these (earlier and latter) ayaat give information about them, so their information about them is most weighty. Then if one was to say that Allaah mentioned it in a mode that is general for all who do not judge by what Allaah revealed, so how can you make it specific? Then the answer is, that Allaah was general in His address about people who reject the ruling that Allaah decreed in His Book. He informed about them – that by their avoiding to judge in the way that they had, they were disbelievers. So in this way, it is said about all who do not judge by what Allaah revealed out of rejection to it, that he is a disbeliever in Allaah, as Ibn Abbaas said. Because by their rejection of Allaah’s judgement after having knowledge that it was revealed in His Book, then they have rejected the Prophethood of His Prophet after they knew that he was a prophet.” [8]

So this is the meaning of the saying of Al-Hasan:

“It was revealed upon the Jews and it applies to us.”

And the saying of Ibraheem An-Nakha’ee:

“It was revealed upon the children of Israel and it applies this Ummah.” [9]

So this is the opinion of the Shaykh of the Mufassireen Ibn Jareer and Al-Qaadi Bin Ishaaq, and Aboo Su’ood, and Al-Jassaas and many others. They all agree perfectly with what was said by Hudhayfah (radiyallaahu anhu) which was reported from him by Hamaam who said:

“We were with Hudhayfah (radiyallaahu anhu) so we mentioned: “..And whoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed such are the disbelievers (kaafiroon).” [Al-Maa`idah (5):44].

A man from amongst the people said “Indeed this was revealed upon the children of Israel!

Then Hudhayfah (radiyallaahu anhu) said: `Yes, your brothers among the children of Israel. You think that it gives a free licence in your case, and punishment in theirs! Rather, by the one in whose Hand is my soul, as long as the practise is the same as the practice then the threat is the same as the threat.” [10]

And this is the opinion of Abu Mijliz and many others. Aboo Mijliz was a major ta`bi`een, a great scholar:

“A group from the Ibaadiyyah came to sit with him, they said: ‘Allaah (subhaanahu wa ta’aala) says: “..And whoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed such are the disbelievers (kaafiroon).” [Al-Maa`idah (5):44]…“..such are the Oppressors (dhaalimoon).”[Al-Maa`idah (5):45].. “..such are the disobedient (faasiqoon).” [Al-Maa`idah (5):47]..’

Aboo Mijliz said: ‘They (the rulers) are aware of what they do and they know that it is sinful. – in another narration – ‘if they left any matter of it, then they know that they have sinned – and this verse was revealed upon the Jews and the Christians.`

They said: `By Allaah you truly know what we know, but you fear them.

He said: `You have more cause to be afraid then us, as for us, we do not know what you know!` They said: `you do know but that which prevents you from performing your duty is your fear of them.[11]

So Aboo Mijliz (rahimahullaah) was saying that the leaders know what they know regarding judging by other than what Allaah has revealed, and they know that it is major sin and that they are deserving a dreadful punishment. But their desires and lusts carried them along. So the verse does not include them in it. Because it was revealed upon those who judge by other than what Allaah has revealed out of denial and making it permissible as the Jews and Christians and whoever treads their path. So those are the ones that leave the fold of Islam, because of their denial, and making halal, not the leaders.

But those Ibaadiyyah, and they are a sect from the HurooreeKhawarijj were not content with that and did not agree. Rather they transgressed the boundaries of manners and continued upon what they are upon today saying: `And whoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed then he is a disbeliever’ without any explanation.”

This is indeed the opinion of many people today! Oh Allaah I flee to you from ever going astray and speaking without knowledge.

Fourth and fifth saying to follow in next weeks class, in shaa’ Allaah.

“And whoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed, such are the disbelievers.”

[Al-Maa`idah (5):44]

That Allaah meant by this verse all of mankind, the Muslims and the disbelievers.

From those who say that are Ibn Mas’ood, Al-Hasan, and Ibraheem An-Nakha’ee and As-Suddi.[12]

The word: مَن“..(man) whoever..” (in the above verse) cannot be restricted to a particular people like leaders, or politicians, or Jews or Christians, it shows clearly that it applies to all people.

Aj-Jassas said about this verse:

“Ibn Mas’ood and Al-Hasan said about this verse: “And it is general” meaning for whoever does not judge by what Allaah reveals, and judges by other than it out of choice knowing that it is the law of Allaah. So whoever does this has disbelieved.”[13]

Al-Qurtubee (rahimahullaah) said about this verse:

Ibn Mas’ood and Al-Hasan said: “It is general for anyone who does not judge by what Allaah reveals from the Muslims, and the Jews and the disbelievers.” meaning believing in that and making it permissible.[14]

And Aboo Hayyaan said:

“And As-Su’oodee said: “Whoever opposes the law of Allaah and abandoned it deliberately and went beyond it with knowledge, then he is truly from the disbelievers.” This is because of the denial so it is kufr the opposite of Eemaan.[15]

He also said:

“And that it is general for the Jews and other than them is the opinion of Ibn Mas’ood, and Ibraheem, and Aathaai and many others. But it is Kufr–doona–Kufr (a disbelief less than disbelief which takes you out the fold of Islam) and Dhulm-doona-Dhulm (an oppression less than the oppression which takes one out the fold of Islam) and Fisq-doona-Fisq (a sin which does not take you out the fold of Islam) meaning the kufr (disbelief) of a Muslim is not like that of a kaafir (disbeliever). Similarly his dhulm and fisq does not take him out the fold of Islam.”[16]

And Ibn Aatheea said:

“And a great number of people of knowledge said: The verse incorporates everyone that does not judge by what Allaah reveals, but for the leaders of this Ummah it is Kufr-al-Maasia (major sin only) it does not take them out of Imaan.”[17]

So it is imperative to know here that it was the Mufassiroon that placed the above restriction of the verse, regarding the leaders. Whilst at the same time they were the ones who made the verse general to everyone else. This means that for the leader it can only be kufr al Ashgar (minor kufr), and as for everyone else then it could at times be kufr al Ashgar or at times be kufr al akbar.

Fifth Saying:

That Allaah meant by the first verse of Soorah Al-Maa’idah (verse 44): the Muslims, where He said at the end that “…such are the disbelievers (kaafiroon).”The Jews by the second verse (verse 45) where He said “….such are the oppressors “(dhalimoon).” The Christians by the following two verses (verse 46-47) where He said: “…such are the sinners “(fasiqoon).”

Abu Hayaan said: “And it is as if He specified every general statement by the verse which came after it.

When before the first statement: “… such are the disbelievers (kafiroon)” He said “so if they come to you then judge between them or…” “..And if you judge then judge..”… (to His final saying)….”…and whosoever does not judge by what Allaah reveals such are the disbelievers (kafiroon)”

And before the second statement “……such are the oppressors (dhalimoon)”He said “ …and we ordained therein for them a life for a life..” (to his final saying) ”..and whosoever does not judge by what Allaah reveals such are the oppressors (dhalimoon).”

And before the third statement “..such are the sinners (fasiqoon).”

He said: “..and in their footsteps we sent Jesus son of Mary confirming the Tawrah that had come before him..” (to His saying) “..and whosoever does not judge by what Allaah reveals such are the sinners (fasiqoon).”[20]

This statement is understood just as the previous one that the kufr of the Muslims is kufr maasia (major sin) or kufr-doona- kufr (a kufr that does not take one out of the fold of Islam) otherwise the apparent state of the Muslims would be more evil than the people of the Book. This is how the people of knowledge explained it.

Al-Aloosi said:

“Ibn Hameed and others narrate from As-Sha`bi that he said: “the three verses that are in Al-Maa’idah: The first one is for this Ummah. The second is for the Jews. The third is for the Christians.”

This dictates that the believers are in an evil condition, worse than the Jews and the Christians. Except that if it was said: “that kufr if it is directed to the believers then it is carried as harshness, and a disbeliever if he is described with fisq (sin) and dhulm (oppression) then it shows his arrogance and his disobedience in it.[21]

THE CONCLUSION OF THE FIVE SAYINGS AND CONCENSUS UPON ITS MEANING:

There is no real difference in the reality of its meaning or its explanation. Rather all of them come out from one niche. If there begins differences in the apparent usage of words then it is permissible differing (ikhtilaaf-at-tanowwaa), not the impermissible differing (ikhtilaaf-u-tadaad), and we praise Allaah for this.

As for the apparent meaning of the verse then no one from the well known people of knowledge explained it to mean what it apparently says. Rather no one at all had ever done so.[22]

The Consensus:

It has been narrated that: A man from the khawaarij entered upon Al-Mamoon. So Mamoon said to him: “What caused you to differ with us?” He said: “A verse in the book of Allaah.” Then Mamoon asked: “Which one?” The man replied: “Whoever does not judge by what Allaah reveals then such are the disbelievers.” So Mamoon said to him: “Do you have evidence that it was revealed?” He replied: “Yes.” So he said: “Then what is your evidence?” He replied: “Consensus of the Ummah.” So he said: “then as you accepted their consensus that it was revealed, then accept their consensus in the explanation.” He replied: “You spoke the truth. Assalaamu alaikum O Ameerul-Mumineen.” [23]

Summary Of The Five Sayings Of All The Mufassireen

1. He who denies what Allaah has revealed has disbelieved and he who accepts it but does not judge by it then he is a dhaalim,faasiq.

2. That the intended meaning of this verse is kufr doona kufr disbelief less than disbelief which does not takes you out the fold of Islam.

3. That Allaah meant by this verse the Jews who changed the book of Allaah and its rules.

4. That Allaah meant by this verse all of mankind, the Muslims and the disbelievers.

5. That Allaah meant by the first verse of Soorah Al-Maa’idah (verse 44) the Muslims, where He said at the end that “…such are the disbelievers (kafiroon).”The Jews by the second verse (verse 45) where He said “….such are the oppressors (dhalimoon).”The Christians by the following two verses (verse 46-47) where He said “…such are the sinners (fasiqoon).”

“And whoever does not judge by what Allaah has revealed, such are the disbelievers.”[Al-Maa`idah (5):44]

Then none of his findings will go out of the above five saying.

In conclusion it can clearly be seen that a leader who does not judge by what Allaah has revealed does not leave the fold of Islam unless he falls under point 1 (first saying) only. As for point 4 (fourth saying) though it is general according to some mufassireen so incorporates leaders as well, it is restricted to a kufar–masiayah for the leaders which does not take them out the fold of Islam.

Tafsir Ibn Kathir

The Qur’an is the revelation of Allah’s Own Words for the guidance of His creatures. Since the Qur’an is the primary source of Islamic teachings, the correct understanding for the Qur’an is necessary for every Muslim. The Tafsir of Ibn Kathir is among the most renowned and accepted explanation of the Qur’an in the entire world. In it one finds the best presentation of Hadiths, history, and scholarly commentary.

Question: What are the books you recommend a young person that is starting out in his Islaamic studies to read?

Answer: If he is a novice, then from the books of Fiqh, we advise him to read ” Fiqh As-Sunnah” of Sayyid Saabiq, while seeking assistance from some of its references, such as ” Subul-us-Salaam” (of Imaam As-Sana’aanee, rahimahullaah). And if he looks into ” Tamaam-ul-Mannah” (of Al-Albaanee) then that will be stronger for him. And I advise him to read ” Ar-Rawdat-un-Nadiyyah” (of Sideeq Hasan Khaan).

As for the subject of Tafseer, then he should habitually read from the book ” Tafseer Al-Qur’aan-ul-‘Adheem” of Ibn Katheer – even though it is somewhat long – for it is the most authentic from the books of Tafseer today.

Then, on the subject of religious exhortation and heart-softening narrations, he should read the book “Riyaad-us-Saaliheen” of Imaam An-Nawawee.

Then, with regard to the books related to Creed, I advise him to read the book ” Sharh Al-‘Aqeedat-ut-Tahaawiyyah” of Ibn Abee Al-‘Izz Al-Hanafee. And he should seek assistance, also, from my comments and explanations to it.

Then, he should make it his customary practice to study from the books of Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah and his student Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah, may Allaah have mercy on them. For I hold them to be from the rare and unique Muslim scholars that have treaded upon the methodology of the Salaf As-Saalih (righteous predecessors) in their understanding, while having Taqwaa and righteousness. And we do not purify anyone over Allaah.

These four books were written by Shaykh al-Islam Imaam Muhammad ibn ‘Abd al-Wahhaab (may Allaah have mercy on him).

5- Al-‘Aqeedah al-Waasitiyyah which deals with Tawheed al-Asmaa’ wa’l-Sifaat (The Oneness of the Divine names and attributes). This is one of the best books written on this topic, and it is worth reading and studying.

6- Al-Hamawiyyah

7- Al-Tadmuriyyah

These two books are more comprehensive than al-Waasitiyyah. These three books were written by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah.

This book contains some general statements which go against the madhhab of the salaf, such as his saying, “Our Lord is not an essence or an attribute or a physical entity, exalted be He.”

Therefore the seeker of knowledge has to study it with a shaykh who is well versed in the ‘aqeedah of the salaf, so that he can explain the general statements in it that go against the ‘aqeedah of the righteous salaf.

4- ‘Umdat al-Ahkaam by al-Maqdisi. This is an abridged book; most of its ahaadeeth are narrated in al-Saheehayn so their authenticity does not need to be researched.

5- Al-Arba’een al-Nawawiyyah, by Abu Zakariyya al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him). This is a good book because it includes etiquette and a good methodology, and important basic principles, such as the hadeeth, “Part of a person’s being a good Muslim is his leaving alone that which does not concern him.”

This principle – if one made it the path upon which one walks – would be sufficient. Another principle is given concerning when one should speak, “Whoever believes in Allaah and the Last Day, let him say something good or else remain silent.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, Kitaab al-Adab; Muslim, Kitaab al-Luqtah, Baab al-Diyaafah).

6- Buloogh al-Maraam, by al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqallaani. This is a very useful book, especially because it mentions the narrators, and quoted the opinions of others scholars, who said whose hadeeth is saheeh and whose is da’eef, and he comments on the hadeeth to say whether they are saheeh or da’eef.

7- Nukhbat al-Fikr by al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqallaani. This is considered to be a comprehensive work. If the seeker of knowledge understands it completely then he will have no need of many other books of mustalah (the science of hadeeth). Ibn Hajar (may Allaah have mercy on him) has a useful way of writing, which involves examining every issue in depth and categorizing the topics he discusses. If the seeker of knowledge reads it he will find it stimulating, because it is based on making one think. I say: it is good for the seeker of knowledge to memorize it because it is a useful summary of the science of mustalah (science of hadeeth).

8- The Six Books (Saheeh al-Bukhaari, Muslim, al-Nasaa’i, Abu Dawood, Ibn Maajah and al-Tirmidhi). I advise the seeker of knowledge to read them often, because that will serve two purposes: reviewing the main sources of Islam and reviewing the names of hadeeth narrators. If you often review the names of hadeeth narrators, then whenever you come across the name of one of the narrators of al-Bukhaari in any isnaad, you will know that this is one of the narrators of al-Bukhaari, so you will benefit from this knowledge of hadeeth.

2- Zaad al-Mustaqni’ fi Ikhtisaar al-Muqni’ by al-Hajjaawi. This is one of the best texts of fiqh. It is a blessed book, brief and comprehensive. Our shaykh, ‘Abd al-Rahmaan al-Sa’di (may Allaah have mercy on him) told us to memorize it, even though he had memorized the text of Daleel al-Taalib.

5- al-Usool min ‘Ilm al-Usool. This is an abridged book which serves as an introduction for the seeker of knowledge.

4) – Faraa’id (laws of inheritance)

1- Matn al-Rahbiyyah by al-Rahbi

2- Matn al-Burhaaniyyah by Muhammad al-Burhaani. This is a useful and comprehensive abridged book dealing with all the laws of inheritance. I think that al-Burhaaniyyah is more comprehensive than al-Rahbiyyah in some ways, and it gives more information.

5) – Tafseer

1- Tafseer al-Qur’aan al-‘Azeem by Ibn Katheer (may Allaah have mercy on him). This book is good for tafseer based on reports and it is useful and trustworthy. But it does pay much attention to matters of grammar and style.

3- Muqaddimah Shaykh al-Islam fi’l-Tafseer. This is an important introduction.

4- Adwaa’ al-Bayaan by al-‘Allaamah Muhammad al-Shanqeeti (may Allaah have mercy on him). This is a comprehensive book covering hadeeth, fiqh, tafseer and usool al-fiqh.

6) – General books on some subjects:

1- On (Arabic) grammar: Matn al-Ajroomiyyah. This is an abridged book.

2- Also on Arabic grammar: Alfiyyah Ibn Maalik; this is a summary of the science of grammar.

3- On Seerah (Prophet’s biography): The best book that I have seen is Zaad al-Ma’aad by Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allaah have mercy on him). This is a very useful book in which he mentions the biography of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) from all angels, then he discusses many rulings.

4- Rawdat al-‘Uqalaa’ by Ibn Hibbaan al-Busti (may Allaah have mercy on him). This is a useful book despite its brevity. He compiled a large amount of useful material and stories of the scholars, muhadditheen and others.

5- Siyar A’laam al-Nubalaa’ by al-Dhahabi. This book is very useful and the seeker of knowledge should read and refer to it.

1) The Crashing Blow!
2) What is the Crashing Blow?
3) What will make you realise what the Crashing Blow is?
4) A day when mankind will be like scattered moths,
5) and the mountains like tufts of wool.
6) Then, as for him whose scales are heavy;
7) he will have a most pleasant life.
8 ) But as for him whose scales are light,
9) a Bottomless Pit will be his matron.
10) What will make you realise what it is?
11) A raging Fire!

“The Crashing Blow” one of the names given to the Day of Judgment, it is called so because its horrors strike man with fear and trepidation. It is for this reason that Allah stressed its gravity and severity by asking, “What is the Crashing Blow? What will make you realise what the Crashing Blow is? “A day when mankind” in abject terror and horror “will be like scattered moths,” like scattered locusts, randomly surging into each other, not knowing where they are going; then, when a fire is lit, they rush headlong into it, unable to perceive its danger. On that Day, despite man being a rational creature, this will be his state.[1] “And the mountains,” firm, mighty, unmoving, “like tufts of wool,” feeble and of such weight that the least gust of wind cause them to flutter away. Allah says, “And you see the mountains that you deem solid flying with the flight of clouds.”[2] Then, the mountains shall become like “scattered dust”[3] and no perceivable trace of them shall remain. Then, the Scale will be erected and man shall be divided into two categories: the felicitous and the wretched. “Then, as for him whose scales are heavy,” i.e. his good deeds outweigh his bad “he will have a most pleasant life,” in the Gardens of Bliss. “But as for him whose scales are light,” whose good deeds do not compare to his bad “a Bottomless Pit,” al-Hawiyah (one of the names of Hell) “will be his matron,” his abode and final destination. It will like a mother to him who always sticks close to him just as Allah says, “surely the punishment thereof is lasting and clinging.”[4] It is also said that the meaning is that his mind will be hurled into Hellfire, meaning that he will be thrown into Hell headfirst. “What will make you realise what it is?” asked by way of emphasising its severity, then the answer is given: “a raging Fire” intensely hot, seventy times hotter than the fire of this world, we seek Allah’s protection from it!

Footnotes
1. Muslim records on the authority of Jabir that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said,

“My example and your example is that of a person who lit a fire and insects and moths began to fall in it, and he did his utmost to prevent them from falling in. I am grabbing onto your lower garments trying to hold you back from the Fire, but you are slipping from my hand.”

In another place Allah describes the state of man with the words, “With downcast eyes, they come forth from the graves as they were scattered locusts.” [al-Qamar (54): 7]